Indulge in Southern Comfort: The Ultimate Creamy Pimento Cheese Egg Salad Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful dish that marries the classic comfort of egg salad with the zesty, cheesy goodness of pimento cheese, look no further. This **Pimento Cheese Egg Salad** recipe is a true southern-inspired masterpiece, offering a rich, creamy, and incredibly flavorful experience perfect for any meal. Whether you serve it on soft bread, flaky croissants, or as a low-carb option in crisp lettuce wraps, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

This easy recipe combines perfectly hard-boiled eggs with a luscious blend of pimentos, tangy cream cheese, fresh chives, and creamy mayonnaise. It’s an ideal choice for quick lunches, picnics, potlucks, or even a light dinner. Its vibrant flavor profile and irresistible texture make it a standout dish that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

For more of my favorite egg recipes that are sure to impress, make sure to check out this deviled egg pasta salad and the ultimate egg salad sandwich – perfect companions to this pimento cheese delight!

Essential Ingredients for Your Pimento Cheese Egg Salad

Creating the perfect pimento cheese egg salad starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for selecting them:

• Eggs: You’ll need large, hard-boiled eggs for this recipe. For the best texture and ease of peeling, ensure your eggs are cooked perfectly. A good tip is to place eggs in a single layer in a pot, cover with about an inch of cold water, bring to a rolling boil, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
• Pimentos: These small, sweet red peppers are the heart of “pimento cheese.” Make sure to drain them thoroughly and chop them finely. You can find them jarred in the condiment aisle of most grocery stores. Draining them properly prevents your egg salad from becoming watery.
• Cream Cheese: For that signature creamy and tangy texture, softened cream cheese is key. Take it out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes to an hour before you plan to mix to ensure it’s at room temperature. This will help it blend smoothly with the other ingredients, preventing lumps. Full-fat cream cheese offers the richest flavor and creamiest consistency.
• Mayonnaise (Mayo): Use a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the best results. Mayonnaise provides moisture and binds all the ingredients together, adding a rich, savory depth. Avoid light or fat-free versions as they can compromise the creamy texture and flavor.
• Chives: Freshly chopped chives add a mild oniony flavor and a touch of vibrant color. If chives aren’t available, finely chopped scallions (green onions) or even a very small amount of white onion can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly stronger.
• Mustard: A teaspoon of mustard, such as Dijon or even yellow mustard, adds a subtle tang that brightens the overall flavor of the egg salad. It’s a classic egg salad ingredient that enhances the savory notes without overpowering the pimento cheese flavor.
• Hot Sauce (Optional): For those who enjoy a little kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add a fantastic layer of flavor and a touch of warmth. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• Cheddar Cheese: A quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese enhances the “pimento cheese” aspect of this recipe. A sharp or extra-sharp cheddar will provide a more pronounced cheese flavor, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste and adjust to your preference. Freshly ground black pepper adds a superior flavor.

See the recipe card below for exact ingredient quantities and complete instructions.

Why This Pimento Cheese Egg Salad Is a Must-Try

This isn’t just another egg salad; it’s a gourmet upgrade that brings a beloved Southern classic to your table. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:

• Unforgettable Flavor Fusion: The combination of creamy eggs with the sharp, tangy, and slightly sweet notes of pimento cheese is truly exceptional. It’s a harmonious blend that satisfies both comfort food cravings and a desire for something a little more adventurous.
• Incredibly Versatile: From a quick weekday lunch to a festive brunch spread, this egg salad fits right in. It’s fantastic in sandwiches, as a dip with crackers, or as a light, low-carb meal in lettuce cups. Its adaptability makes it perfect for any occasion.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal cooking involved (just boiling eggs!) and simple mixing, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals. You can have a delicious, homemade meal or snack ready in under 20 minutes, including prep time.
• Satisfying and Hearty: Packed with protein from the eggs and healthy fats from the mayo and cheese, this egg salad is surprisingly filling. It will keep you satiated without feeling heavy, making it an excellent option for a nutritious meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This egg salad holds up wonderfully in the fridge, meaning you can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several days. It’s a great way to ensure you always have a tasty, ready-to-eat option on hand.

Top Tips for the Best Pimento Cheese Egg Salad

To ensure your pimento cheese egg salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these key tips in mind:

• Ensure Cream Cheese is Fully Softened: This cannot be stressed enough. If your cream cheese is cold and firm, it will be incredibly difficult to incorporate smoothly into the egg salad, resulting in a lumpy texture. Room temperature cream cheese mixes effortlessly, creating a wonderfully creamy base.
• Chill Boiled Eggs Completely: After hard-boiling your eggs, allow them to cool completely before peeling and mixing. Warm eggs will absorb the dressing differently and can result in a less desirable texture and taste when served cold. Cold egg salad has a much fresher and more vibrant flavor.
• Drain Pimentos Well: Pimentos often come packed in liquid. Make sure to drain them thoroughly before chopping to avoid introducing excess moisture into your egg salad, which can make it runny.
• Mash Eggs to Your Liking: The texture of your egg salad is a personal preference. Use a fork for a chunkier texture with distinct pieces of egg white and yolk, or mash them more finely for a smoother, more uniform consistency.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, always taste your egg salad and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. The saltiness of the pimentos and cheese can vary, so a final seasoning check is crucial.
• Serve Cold for Optimal Flavor: While perfectly safe to eat immediately, this pimento cheese egg salad truly shines when served chilled. The flavors meld together beautifully after resting in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even an hour.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas

The versatility of this pimento cheese egg salad means you have endless options for serving. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Classic Sandwiches: Pile it high between two slices of soft white bread, toasted sourdough, or whole wheat bread for a classic and satisfying sandwich.
• Flaky Croissants: For an elevated touch, spoon the egg salad into a buttery, flaky croissant. The rich texture of the croissant complements the creamy filling perfectly.
• Low-Carb Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, carb-conscious option, serve generous scoops in crisp lettuce cups, such as butter lettuce or romaine hearts.
• Crunchy Crackers: It makes a fantastic dip or spread for crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks (like celery and carrots) for an easy appetizer or snack.
• On Toast Points: Spread it on toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer at your next gathering.
• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, a green salad, or a bowl of soup for a balanced meal.
• In Stuffed Tomatoes or Avocados: For a fresh and appealing presentation, hollow out ripe tomatoes or avocados and fill them with the creamy egg salad.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Have any delicious leftovers? Proper storage is key to keeping your pimento cheese egg salad fresh and tasty. Simply transfer any remaining egg salad into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days. Due to the mayonnaise and eggs, it’s best not to leave it out at room temperature for extended periods. We do not recommend freezing egg salad, as the texture of the eggs and mayonnaise can change significantly upon thawing.

Watch How to Make Pimento Cheese Egg Salad

Prefer to follow along with a visual guide? Check out this helpful video that walks you through each step of preparing this incredible pimento cheese egg salad. It’s perfect for visual learners and ensures you won’t miss a single detail!

Tried this delightful recipe? Please leave a star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page. Your feedback helps other home cooks discover and enjoy this delicious dish! And consider following me on Facebook or Pinterest for more inspiring recipes!